Russian band accuses gov’t of canceling their shows

A popular Russian rock band known for its criticism of the Kremlin has accused officials of canceling its concerts in Siberia for political reasons.       

DDT front man Yuri Shevchuk had taken an active role in last winter's street protests, addressing crowds from the stage and playing an acoustic set to a hundred thousand-strong rally in freezing weather.       

Before street protests became part of Russian political life, Shevchuk challenged Prime Minister Vladimir Putin in a public meeting in 2010 about social inequality in Russia and abuses by bureaucrats and asked him if the planned protests rally would be as brutally cracked down as previously.       

His band said in a statement Wednesday that shows in Kemerovo, Omsk and Tyumen had been canceled following pressure by authorities.       

Shevchuk said in the statement that some tickets had almost sold out.       

The band said it has no grounds for legal recourse because it believes instructions were issued to venue owners in private conversations.       

"These cunning bureaucrats gave their orders via telephone, which makes it almost impossible for us to sue them," the statement said.       

Authorities have denied any role in canceling the shows.       

In Kemerovo, the owner of the Arena stadium told RIA Novosti that it had to cancel the show because the firm that organized DDT's concerts was not well-known on the market.       

DDT has played since 1980 and has gained a reputation for frank and patriotic lyrics. They have played stadiums all over the country.           

AP